Housing Assistance for Single Mothers in Idaho

Complete Housing Assistance Guide for Single Mothers in Idaho

Last updated: August 2025

Information verified with current program data as of August 12, 2025

Main Points

Emergency rental assistance is available through Jesse Tree and local Community Action Agencies statewide
Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8) help pay up to 70% of rent, but waiting lists are 12-24 months long
USDA rural home loans offer 5.125% interest rates with no down payment for eligible areas
LIHEAP utility assistance provides up to $1,242 for winter heating bills
Income limits vary by county – most programs serve families earning 30-80% of area median income
Critical housing shortage with Fair Market Rents ranging from $850 in rural areas to $1,300 in Boise metro

If You Need Help Today

Facing eviction or homeless? Call 2-1-1 immediately for emergency assistance or dial (877) 456-1233.

Can’t pay utilities? Contact your local Community Action Agency for crisis utility assistance up to $1,500.

Need rent help now? Contact Jesse Tree at (208) 258-2282 if you received an eviction notice in Ada or Canyon County.

In danger? Women’s and Children’s Alliance: (208) 343-7025 (24-hour hotline) or National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233.

Emergency Housing Assistance

Jesse Tree Eviction Prevention

Jesse Tree provides emergency rental assistance specifically for families who have already received eviction notices or court summons. Jesse Tree provides tenants who are being evicted with a one-time, one-month payment of rent, allowing tenants to remain in their home.

What it covers:

One-time rental assistance (typically one month’s rent)
Court advocacy and tenant rights education
Mediation with landlords
Connections to additional resources

Eligibility: Eligible tenants must have received an eviction notice or be summoned to court, and be at risk of homelessness.

Counties served: Ada and Canyon counties primarily

How to apply: Call (208) 258-2282 or apply online at jessetreeidaho.org

Reality check: Each month, Jesse Tree provides 100 families who are at risk of eviction and homelessness with financial assistance and case management. Unfortunately, Jesse Tree is only able to support 25% of those in need. Don’t wait – apply immediately if you receive an eviction notice.

Community Action Agencies Crisis Assistance

Idaho has Community Action Agencies serving all 44 counties. These agencies provide emergency assistance including rental help, utility payments, and basic needs support.

El-Ada Community Action Partnership (Ada, Elmore counties):

Emergency rental assistance
LIHEAP Crisis available if household’s Intermountain Gas or Idaho Power is at risk of disconnection or has been disconnected
Phone: (208) 322-1242

Example programs across Idaho:

Crisis intervention for utility shut-offs
Emergency rental assistance (amounts vary by agency)
Security deposit assistance
Emergency food and clothing

County Assistance Programs

According to Idaho Legal Aid, each county is required by law to offer financial aid for people who cannot afford their basic necessities. This program may be able to assist you with rent, utilities, food, medical expenses and medications.

Ada County:

Emergency rental assistance once per year
Can help with rent, power, heat, or water bills
Apply at Ada County Clerk’s website
Processing time: About two weeks

2-1-1 Idaho CareLine

Idaho Care Line Hours: Mon – Fri, 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Dial 2-1-1 for immediate referrals to emergency assistance in your area.

Long-Term Housing Programs

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)

The Housing Choice Voucher program is administered by Idaho Housing and Finance Association (IHFA) outside of certain counties, and by local housing authorities in Boise/Ada County and southwestern Idaho.

Income Eligibility (2025)

Source: Affordable Housing Hub – Idaho Section 8

For example, as of 2025, the income limit for a family of four in Boise County, Idaho is $42,000 per year for households at 50% of the AMI and $67,200 per year for households at 80% of the AMI.

Family Size	30% AMI (Extremely Low)	50% AMI (Very Low)	80% AMI (Low)
1 person	$19,020	$31,700	$50,720
2 people	$21,740	$36,200	$57,920
3 people	$24,460	$40,750	$65,200
4 people	$27,180	$45,250	$72,400

Note: These are approximate statewide averages. These limits vary by county and are subject to annual adjustment by HUD.

Priority groups:

Currently, 75% of eligible applicants must have income that does not exceed 30% of the median area income
Families experiencing homelessness
Elderly households and families with disabilities
Idaho residents, elderly, disabled, families with minor children, and participants exiting an Idaho transitional housing program for homeless persons

Geographic divisions – THIS IS CRITICAL:

IF YOU LIVE IN ADA COUNTY, you must apply here. Idaho Housing does not administer the program in Boise or the Treasure Valley area
IF YOU LIVE IN CANYON, OWYHEE, ELMORE, GEM, PAYETTE, ADAMS, VALLEY OR WASHINGTON COUNTY, you must apply here. Idaho Housing does not administer the program in these counties

Application process:

Determine which housing authority serves your county
Check waiting list status – many are periodically closed
Complete application when waiting list opens
Provide income verification, ID, Social Security cards, rental history
Wait for voucher availability (typically 12-18 months to over 2 years)
Attend voucher briefing once selected
Find qualifying rental unit within timeframe given
Pass housing quality standards inspection

Reality check: Due to high demand applicants are placed on waiting lists which varies from 12 months to 18 months, depending on their current housing status and the area of the state and program funding levels. Many housing authorities close their waiting lists when overwhelmed. Submitting a complete application early and keeping your information updated can improve your chances of receiving assistance.

Fair Market Rents (2025)

Source: Affordable Housing Hub – Idaho Section 8

Area	1 BR	2 BR	3 BR	4 BR
Boise-Nampa	$1,000	$1,300	$1,650	$2,100
Coeur d’Alene	$875	$1,125	$1,425	$1,800
Idaho Falls	$725	$925	$1,175	$1,500
Rural Counties	$650	$850	$1,075	$1,375

As of 2025, the FMR for a two-bedroom unit ranges from $850 in rural areas to $1,300 in the Boise-Nampa metropolitan area

Family Self-Sufficiency Program

Through the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program, JaLynne worked one-on-one with a housing counselor to improve her credit, boost her savings, and set a long-term goal of homeownership.

Benefits:

A path to economic independence for Housing Choice Voucher renters
Individual goal setting and case management
Credit improvement assistance
Savings account building (escrow funds)
Homeownership preparation

Eligibility: Must be a Housing Choice Voucher recipient

Public Housing

Limited public housing developments exist in Idaho, primarily managed by local housing authorities.

Pros:

Rent typically 30% of adjusted income
Some utilities included
Stable housing with on-site management

Cons:

Very limited availability
Long waiting lists
Fewer location choices

Homeownership Programs

USDA Rural Housing Programs

Section 502 Direct Loans

The USDA Section 502 program helps low-income families buy homes in rural areas with no down payment required.

Current rates: Effective August 1, 2025, the current interest rate for Single Family Housing Direct home loans is 5.125% for low-income and very low-income borrowers.

Key features:

Interest rate when modified by payment assistance, can be as low as 1%
Up to 33 year payback period – 38 year payback period for very low income applicants who can’t afford the 33 year loan term
No down payment is typically required

Eligibility:

Income at or below low-income limits for the area
Unable to obtain conventional financing
Property must be in USDA-eligible rural area
U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen

Regional contacts: Northern Idaho (Office Location: Coeur d’Alene) [Counties: Benewah, Bonner, Boundary, Kootenai, Shoshone, Clearwater, Idaho, Lewis, Latah, Nez Perce] Area Director Noe Ramirez Office: (208) 779-3440

[Counties: Bannock, Bingham, Bonneville, Butte, Clark, Custer, Fremont, Jefferson, Lemhi, Madison, Power, Teton, Franklin, Caribou, Bear Lake, Oneida] Area Director Taylor Pratt Phone: (208) 690-3535

Idaho Housing and Finance Association Programs

Down Payment Assistance: Idaho Housing and Finance provides homebuyers up to 10% of the sales price of the home to use for a down payment and/or closing costs.

First-Time Homebuyer Requirements: In Idaho, first-time homebuyers are considered those who haven’t owned a primary home in the past three years.

Finally Home! Program: Pre-purchase education and post-purchase support for sustainable homeownership.

Idaho First-Time Homebuyer Savings Account

First-time homebuyers in Idaho who save money for a home purchase through a special account can deduct contributions to the account and interest earned on Idaho state taxes as long as the funds are used for the home purchase.

Utility Assistance Programs

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps Idaho families pay utility bills and weatherize their homes, and provides energy conservation education.

Benefits Available (FY2025)

Source: LIHEAP Clearinghouse – Idaho

Benefit Type	Amount Available	When Available
Heating	$75 minimum, $1,242 maximum	October 1 – March 31
Crisis	$1,500 maximum	Year-round
Weatherization	Varies	Year-round

Income Eligibility (60% State Median Income)

Source: Community Action Partnership Income Guidelines

Household Size	Monthly Income Limit
1	$2,254.67
2	$2,948.42
3	$3,642.17
4	$4,336.00
5	$5,029.75

Application periods:

Families with children under the age of six, elderly or disabled members can apply for services beginning in October. All other families can begin applying for services in November
Heating assistance is typically available in fall and winter

Priority households: Households with the elderly or disabled or a young child under age 5 are given priority consideration

How to apply: LIHEAP is provided by Community Action Agencies, serving every county in Idaho. Contact your local Community Action Agency.

Automatic eligibility: Households in Idaho that receive Food Stamps (SNAP), Supplemental Security Income (SSI), or Temporary Assistance for Families in Idaho (TAFI) automatically meet the income guidelines.

Project Share (Idaho Power customers)

Project Share is a year-round energy assistance program launched by Idaho Power Company in 1982 to help qualified households with heating and cooling costs.

Eligibility: Must be Idaho Power customer with qualifying income How to apply: Contact The Salvation Army at (208) 433-4424

Specialized Housing Resources

Transitional Housing Programs

Women’s and Children’s Alliance (WCA)

The WCA provides a comprehensive and secure emergency and transitional shelter program, in confidential locations with round-the-clock staff assistance. The shelters have private rooms and common living facilities for women and children who are fleeing domestic and/or sexual assault.

Services:

Emergency and transitional shelter
24-hour staffing and support
Case management and counseling
Safety planning

Contact: Call our 24-hour hotline at 208-343-7025

City Light – Boise Rescue Mission

City Light is Boise Rescue Mission Ministries’ Women’s and Children’s Shelter in Boise, ID, providing meals, beds & more to homeless women & children.

Who they serve: Regardless of where women are coming from, whether homeless, escaping a domestic violence situation, addicted, or struggling, all women and their families are welcome to the City Light Home for Women & Children

Hope’s Door (Canyon County)

Hope’s Door is the only domestic violence shelter for women and children in Canyon County.

Services:

Hope’s Door Shelter has 21 private bedrooms where women and their children have the security and safety needed to begin moving forward with a violence-free future
120 days of emergency housing for women and children
Educational courses on healthy relationships and life skills

Contact: (208) 459-6279

Domestic Violence Housing Resources

Statewide Resources

Women’s and Children’s Alliance: (208) 343-7025 (24-hour) National Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 799-7233 Idaho Council on Domestic Violence: (208) 332-1540

Find help and statistics for Idaho’s 32 domestic violence programs located in 22 cities that provide help for dealing with domestic abuse.

Regional Services

Northern Idaho:

St. Vincent de Paul 201 E. Harrison, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814 208-664-3095

Southwestern Idaho:

Valley Women’s & Children’s Shelter 869 W. Corporate Ln., Nampa, ID 83651 208-475-0725
Advocates Against Family Violence 24-hour Hotline: 208-459-4779

Eastern Idaho:

Promise Ridge (women and children) 288 N. Ridge Ave., Idaho Falls, ID 83402 208-346-8320

Inclusive Housing Resources

LGBTQ+ Single Mothers

While Idaho has limited LGBTQ+-specific housing programs, the following resources provide affirming support:

Local resources:

Contact 2-1-1 and specifically ask about LGBTQ+-affirming housing providers
The Audre Lorde Project 1-718-596-0342
Northwest Network of Bisexual, Trans, Lesbian & Gay Survivors of Abuse 1-206-568-7777

Housing protections:

It is the policy of BCACHA to see that every individual, regardless of race, religion, color, sex, age, national origin, familial status, gender identity, sexual orientation, or disability shall have equal opportunity in accessing affordable housing

Safety considerations: LGBTQ+ individuals may face additional housing discrimination. Document any discriminatory incidents and contact fair housing organizations for support.

Tribal-Specific Resources

Shoshone-Bannock Tribes (Fort Hall Reservation)

The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes are located on the Fort Hall Reservation in Southeastern Idaho, between the cities of Pocatello, American Falls, and Blackfoot.

Tribal enrollment: The Shoshone-Bannock Tribes have more than 5,300 enrolled members, and more than half reside on the Fort Hall Reservation

Housing programs:

The Tribal Housing Opportunities Program policy is to assist Tribal members and their families who desire home-ownership

Contact information:

P.O. Box 306 Fort Hall, ID 83203-0306
Planning Director: Alonzo Coby Planning Director P: (208)478-3934 E: acoby@sbtribes.com

Other Tribal Resources

HUD Indian Housing Programs: Available to enrolled tribal members nationwide regardless of tribe Native American Housing Assistance: Contact HUD’s Office of Native American Programs at (800) 955-2232

Rural Single Mothers with Limited Access

Rural Idaho families face unique challenges including limited transportation, fewer service providers, and higher costs relative to income.

Specialized resources:

USDA Rural Development programs (described above)
LIHEAP is provided by Community Action Agencies, serving every county in Idaho
Mobile service delivery in some counties

Transportation barriers:

Contact local Community Action Agencies for transportation vouchers
Some agencies provide gas cards for essential appointments
Telehealth services for certain support needs

Internet access challenges:

Many applications can be completed by phone
Community libraries often provide computer and internet access
Some agencies will mail paper applications

Single Fathers

While this guide focuses on single mothers, single fathers face similar housing challenges and can access the same programs.

All housing assistance programs described above are available regardless of gender.

Additional considerations:

Male children over 12 may face restrictions in some domestic violence shelters
Father-specific support groups available through some Community Action Agencies
Single Father Network: Online community and local meetups where available

Resources by Region

Boise Metro (Ada County)

Boise City/Ada County Housing Authorities

Housing Choice Vouchers (Section 8)
Emergency Rental Assistance Program
Address: 1001 S Orchard Street, Boise, ID 83705
Phone: (208) 345-4907
Website: bcacha.org

Jesse Tree

Eviction prevention services
Emergency rental assistance
Phone: (208) 258-2282
Website: jessetreeidaho.org

El-Ada Community Action Partnership

El-Ada assisted 5,801 households with energy assistance in FY 2024
LIHEAP assistance
Emergency services
Phone: (208) 322-1242

Northern Idaho (Panhandle)

Community Action Partnership Region 1

Serves Benewah, Bonner, Boundary, Kootenai, Shoshone counties
LIHEAP and emergency assistance
Website: cap4action.org

St. Vincent de Paul

Emergency assistance and shelter services
Multiple locations serving North Idaho
St. Vincent de Paul 201 E. Harrison, Coeur d’Alene, ID 83814 208-664-3095

Eastern Idaho

Eastern Idaho Community Action Partnership (EICAP)

EICAP Main Office 935 E Lincoln Rd Idaho Falls, ID 83401 Phone: (208) 542-8178
LIHEAP assistance
Weatherization programs

Southeast Idaho Community Action Agency (SEICAA)

Serves southeastern Idaho counties
Energy Assistance (208) 232-1114

Central Idaho

Community Action Partnership Region 4

Serves south-central Idaho counties
Emergency assistance and LIHEAP
Multiple county offices

Southwest Idaho (Canyon County)

Southwestern Idaho Cooperative Housing Authority (SICHA)

Housing Choice Vouchers for Canyon, Owyhee, Elmore, Gem, Payette, Adams, Valley, Washington counties
Website: sicha.org

Advocates Against Family Violence

Hope’s Door (women & children) 208-459-6279
Hope Plaza Apartments, which consists of 1, 2 & 3 bedroom units for individuals and families

Common Questions Single Moms Ask (FAQs)

How long do I have to wait for Section 8 in Idaho?

Wait times vary dramatically by location and housing authority. The average is 12-18 months to over 2 years. Boise/Ada County currently has longer waits than rural areas. Many housing authorities periodically close their waiting lists when overwhelmed. Priority is given to families experiencing homelessness, elderly, disabled, and families with children.

Which housing authority do I apply to in Idaho?

This is critical – you MUST apply to the correct authority:

Ada County residents: Apply to Boise City/Ada County Housing Authorities
Canyon, Owyhee, Elmore, Gem, Payette, Adams, Valley, Washington counties: Apply to SICHA
All other Idaho counties: Apply to Idaho Housing and Finance Association

Idaho Housing does not administer the program in Boise or the Treasure Valley area and does not accept applications at the Boise administrative office for this reason.

Can I get emergency rental help if I haven’t received an eviction notice yet?

Limited options exist for pre-eviction assistance. If you are unable to pay your rent or are past due but have NOT received an eviction notice or court summons from your landlord, we cannot pay your rent but we can provide information. However, try:

County assistance programs (once per year)
Community Action Agency emergency funds
Local church and nonprofit assistance

What if I’m working but still can’t afford rent?

Most programs have income limits rather than requiring unemployment. For example, as of 2025, the income limit for a family of four in Boise County, Idaho is $42,000 per year for households at 50% of the AMI and $67,200 per year for households at 80% of the AMI. Working families often qualify for assistance.

Are there special programs for domestic violence survivors?

Yes, Idaho has extensive domestic violence resources:

Idaho has 32 domestic violence programs located in 22 cities
Emergency shelter and transitional housing available
The WCA provides a comprehensive and secure emergency and transitional shelter program, in confidential locations with round-the-clock staff assistance
Priority consideration for housing programs for survivors

Can I get help with utilities during winter?

LIHEAP provides up to $1,242 for winter heating assistance and up to $1,500 for crisis situations. Families with children under the age of six, elderly or disabled members can apply for services beginning in October. Don’t wait until you receive a shut-off notice.

What if I have bad credit or past evictions?

Emergency assistance programs typically don’t check credit
Applicants must demonstrate a history of responsible tenancy, including compliance with lease agreements, and must pass a criminal background check for Section 8
Many landlords will work with voucher holders despite credit issues
Housing counselors can help you address credit problems

Can I move my Section 8 voucher to Idaho from another state?

Yes, through the “portability” process. Contact your current housing authority before moving to begin the transfer process. The Boise City/Ada County Housing Authority has established the following preferences: Idaho residents, so you may get priority once you establish residency.

What happens if my income goes up while I’m receiving assistance?

Participants under these programs pay approximately 30 percent of their adjusted gross monthly income for rent. As a participant’s income changes, the participant’s rent share changes proportionately. Programs conduct annual recertifications, and if your income exceeds program limits, you may need to transition to other housing options.

Can I combine different assistance programs?

Yes, you can often combine programs. For example, you might receive LIHEAP for utilities, SNAP benefits for food, and emergency rental assistance – as long as you meet each program’s individual requirements.

How do I prove my income if I work cash jobs or have irregular income?

Keep detailed records of all work and income. Get written statements from employers when possible, even for cash work. Your local housing counselor can help you document irregular income properly. Many agencies understand that single mothers often work multiple or irregular jobs.

Warning Signs and Reality Checks

Red Flags to Avoid

Housing scams are increasing in Idaho: Never pay fees to apply for Section 8 or public housing. Government programs are free to apply for. Be especially wary of online ads promising immediate Section 8 placement for a fee.

Fake landlords on Craigslist: With Idaho’s housing shortage, scammers prey on desperate renters. Never send money before viewing a property or meeting the real landlord in person.

“Guaranteed” housing assistance: No legitimate service can guarantee you’ll receive housing assistance or move to the front of waiting lists.

Common Challenges in Idaho

Geographic complexity: Idaho’s system is confusing – you must apply to the correct housing authority for your county or your application will be rejected.

Limited funding year-round: Emergency assistance funding often runs out before the end of the fiscal year. Apply early in the program year when possible.

Transportation barriers: Rural areas face significant challenges accessing services. Many offices require in-person visits, and transportation costs can be prohibitive.

Housing shortage impact: Idaho’s housing crisis means even families with vouchers struggle to find available rental units within Fair Market Rent limits.

Winter heating costs: Idaho winters are harsh. LIHEAP funds often run out before the coldest months. Apply for heating assistance as soon as the program opens in October.

Tips for Success

Apply to the right authority immediately: Don’t waste time applying to the wrong housing authority. Research which agency serves your specific county.

Document everything: Keep organized files of all applications, income documentation, and correspondence. Rural families especially need backup copies since services may be far away.

Build relationships with case managers: Consistent communication with your assigned case manager can make the difference in receiving timely assistance.

Plan for seasonal challenges: Winter in Idaho creates additional barriers. Stock up on necessary supplies and apply for heating assistance early.

Understand portability rules: If you need to move for work or family reasons, understand how Housing Choice Vouchers can transfer between regions within Idaho.

Additional Resources

Idaho State Agencies

Idaho Department of Health and Welfare

TANF, SNAP, Medicaid applications
Child Support Services
Phone: (208) 334-5500
Website: healthandwelfare.idaho.gov

Idaho Housing and Finance Association

Primary housing agency for most of Idaho
Housing counseling services
Phone: (208) 331-4700
Website: idahohousing.com

Federal Resources

USDA Rural Development – Idaho

Rural housing and home repair programs
Northern Idaho Office: (208) 779-3440
Eastern Idaho Office: (208) 690-3535
Website: rd.usda.gov

HUD Customer Service

General housing information
Phone: (800) 569-4287
Website: hud.gov

Legal Aid

Idaho Legal Aid Services

Free legal help for housing issues
Housing Advice Line (income eligible only due to funding cuts)
Statewide phone: (208) 746-7541
Website: idaholegalaid.org

Idaho Volunteer Lawyers Program

Pro bono legal assistance
Phone: (208) 334-4510 or 1-800-221-3295
Website: Available through Idaho State Bar

Housing Counseling

HUD-Approved Housing Counselors

Idaho Housing and Finance Association (208) 331-4700
Free counseling on housing searches, budgeting, and homebuyer education
Find counselors: (800) 569-4287

Crisis Support

2-1-1 Idaho

Comprehensive referral service
Dial 2-1-1 or (877) 456-1233
Website: 211.org

Idaho Suicide Prevention Coalition

Crisis support and mental health resources
Call or Text 988
Website: idahospc.org

About this guide

Compiled by the ASingleMother.org Editorial Team

The ASingleMother.org team has been researching and writing comprehensive benefits guides for single mothers across all 50 states since 2020. Our editorial team regularly updates these guides by reviewing official government sources, contacting state agencies, and incorporating feedback from hundreds of single mothers who have used these programs.

This Idaho guide represents over 5 years of experience helping single mothers navigate the benefits system. We verify information with official sources including Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, Idaho Housing and Finance Association, USDA, and HUD to ensure accuracy.

Information compiled from official Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, Idaho Housing and Finance Association, USDA, HUD, and Community Action Agency sources. Last verified: August 2025.

The ASingleMother.org editorial team welcomes feedback on this guide. If you find outdated information or discover new resources, please contact us at info@asinglemother.org so we can help other single mothers with accurate, current information.

Disclaimer

Program details, income limits, and availability can change. This guide provides general information and should not be considered legal or financial advice. Always verify current program requirements, application deadlines, and income limits with the relevant agency before applying. Funding for assistance programs is limited and not guaranteed to be available when you apply.

Idaho’s housing assistance landscape is complex, with different agencies serving different counties. Geographic restrictions are strictly enforced – applying to the wrong agency will result in rejection. For the most current information, contact programs directly or speak with a HUD-approved housing counselor at (800) 569-4287.

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